Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati visited Syria, marking the first visit by a Lebanese leader in over a decade. He and Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa pledged to strengthen ties, focusing on mutual interests, refugee repatriation, and border issues. The meeting reflects changing political dynamics in the region and a renewed willingness to cooperate following years of tensions stemming from the Syrian civil war.
During a historic visit, Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Syria’s new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa committed to fostering stronger ties after years of tensions stemming from the Syrian civil war. This visit marked the first by a Lebanese prime minister to Damascus since 2011, coinciding with adjustments in leadership in Lebanon, including the recent election of President Joseph Aoun. Al-Sharaa emphasized the importance of mutual interests, stating that both countries should strive for a collaborative relationship based on dialogue and respect for national sovereignty. He noted that the integration of the two nations would be greatly beneficial, especially concerning the urgent matter of two million Syrian refugees living in Lebanon. Furthermore, Mikati underscored the need for joint efforts to manage border security and to draw maritime and land borders to facilitate Lebanon’s offshore gas extraction ambitions. Recent diplomatic visits to Syria by foreign officials, including representatives from Oman and Italy, highlight the ongoing regional interest in reestablishing relations with the Assad government, which has been shunned for much of the war. The historical context of Syria’s dominance over Lebanon and the current challenges faced by both nations underline the significance of this renewed cooperation.
The relationship between Syria and Lebanon has a complex and often tumultuous history, particularly influenced by the civil war in Syria that began in 2011. For decades, Syria maintained a dominant military and political presence in Lebanon, a dynamic that shifted following the withdrawal of Syrian troops in 2005. Tensions have been exacerbated by Lebanon’s internal politics, particularly regarding the Iranian-backed militant group Hezbollah, which has been a staunch supporter of the Assad regime. In recent months, both countries have experienced changes in leadership, and there is an emerging desire to address longstanding issues such as the presence of Syrian refugees in Lebanon and border delineation. The Syrian conflict has had devastating impacts, and improving relations could lead to significant strides in regional stability.
The meeting between Najib Mikati and Ahmed al-Sharaa signifies a potential turning point in Syria-Lebanon relations after years of estrangement due to the Syrian civil war. Both leaders expressed a commitment to build a stable and cooperative partnership that prioritizes mutual interests, including managing the refugee crisis and establishing clear borders. This rapprochement may lead to constructive dialogues between the two nations and could influence broader regional dynamics, especially in light of recent diplomatic overtures towards Syria.
Original Source: www.france24.com
